Heatherwick studio reveals the design of a Performing arts center planned for Hainan, China in a competition conducted by Haikou Tourism & Culture Investment Holding Group. The construction of this winning entry by British designer Thomas Heatherwick is likely to start at the end of 2022 in the city of Haikou on the island province of Hainan. It is conceived as a part of the master plan devised to build a cultural area in the Jiangdong district.
The island of Hainan has a volcanic landscape which is used as the inspiration for the design of the Hainan Performing Arts Center. The building is designed with three performing spaces namely, an opera house, a concert, and a theater.
The visuals of the design are reflective of the rectangular site occupied by the Hainan performing arts center curved with a curving roof plane that encloses three sculptural volcano-like cones at its center. As the performing center is a place for programs and events that symbolize colors and movement, the curving roof will be decorated with multi-colored rectangular tiles to align with the vibe of the space.
The curved volcano-like roof will serve as a canopy for numerous different open-air publicly accessible spaces so that it creates a social hub and acts as an extension of the city. The designers intended for the space to not only activate during opera performances but also contribute to the street life of the city throughout the day. The team at Heatherwick studios has taken inspiration from the volcanic landscapes and colors, costumes, and movement of Hainanese opera.
Energy consumption is one criterion considered while designing this project. It reduces the energy consumption and cost keeping the environment comfortable and cool for everyone to enjoy and relax.
The center will host several international events like ballet, opera, musicals, and other arts and cultural performances and will accommodate up to 3,800 people. Hainan Performing Arts Center is the first music venue or any such project designed by Heatherwick Studios and will be recognized as a landmark for the city.